By Chesa Chesa
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, who visited President Bola Tinubu at the State House, Abuja on Thursday, has explained that his visit was to prove that the politics is over and it is now time for governance.
Eno is a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and his party is still in court challenging the emergence of Tinubu as president.
But the Governor told State House correspondents that the purpose of the visit was to extend congratulations to Tinubu on his election victory and swearing-in, as well as to express unwavering support, commitment, and loyalty to the President and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
He stressed the need for unity and collaboration between the state and federal government to ensure that the people of Akwa Ibom can fully benefit from democracy.
His words: “Politics is over, and governance has started. Akwa Ibom is an integral part of Nigeria, and we have to work with the federal government to ensure that Akwa Ibomites see the benefits of democracy. We cannot do that if we stand apart.”
The Governor further highlighted several key areas where the state requires federal intervention for development.
He expressed the pressing need to complete the Calabar-Itu road, stating, “We will need the President to help us intervene and expedite the completion of this road.”
Additionally, Governor Eno discussed the importance of the Ibom deep seaport project and requested the President’s support in making it a reality.
He also mentioned the necessity of obtaining an export license and a free zone for the state’s airport to enhance its maintenance and repair capabilities.
In response to his requests, Eno said the President assured him of his commitment to addressing these issues.
On the recent removal of fuel subsidy and its impact on the citizens, governor Eno revealed that his deputy had already distributed palliatives to all local government areas in the state.
He also pledged to engage with petroleum marketers in Akwa Ibom to find additional measures to alleviate the hardships faced by the people.
He assured the public that his administration would implement various initiatives to mitigate the effects of the subsidy removal.
He stated, “In the coming week, we will unveil a range of measures to support our people and shield them from the effects of the subsidy removal. We will leave no stone unturned in our efforts to alleviate their hardship.”
